Curvy hips that are shapely without being fat can be developed through exercise and strength training. As you trim fat with aerobic exercise and strengthen muscles for a sleeker look, you can also do stretching exercises that elongate and tone your hip muscles. This effective combination can help you get curves that are attractive and make you feel good in your clothing.

Lying Outer Hip Stretch

The lying outer hip stretch is effective after any type of workout, especially those involving running, and it helps tone and stretch the muscles around the hip area. Lie on your back with your arms outstretched to the sides. Bend your left knee, bringing it toward your chest. Fold your left knee over your right hip and bring it as close to the floor as possible. Place your right hand on your left knee and apply a slight amount of pressure to feel the stretch across your outer thigh, left hip and left buttock. Hold the stretch for a count of 20. Slowly move back to the starting position before repeating the stretch on the other side. You can perform this and other stretches daily, if needed, after a workout or to relax and elongate the muscles as you work toward getting toned, curvy hips.

Kneeling Stretch for the Hip Flexor

Stretch, tone and elongate the muscles around your thigh, hip and butt areas with a kneeling stretch for the hip flexor. Position yourself in a lunge with your right foot forward and left leg behind you. Drop your left knee to the floor and rest your hands lightly on your right knee. Push your pelvis forward to ensure your hips are straight throughout the stretch. Hold the stretch for 20 counts before repeating it on the other side.

Standing Glute and Hip Stretch

Lift your gluteus maximus muscles and tone your hip area for a curvier figure. Stand in front of a hip-high step ladder or stool with your feet hip-width apart; position yourself near a wall or chair for balance, if needed. Bend your right knee while turning it out toward your right as you rest the outer part of your right foot on the top of the step ladder. Lean toward your right leg to feel the stretch in your butt and hips. Hold the stretch for 20 counts, and then repeat it with the left leg.

Reveal Curves by Shedding Fat

Show off all your hard work and nicely toned muscles by losing weight. An aerobic exercise plan that helps you lose weight all over will also trim off fat in the hip area. Participate in aerobic exercise for at least 300 minutes per week to lose weight. If you perform cardio exercises that engage the hips, you can burn fat and tone muscle at the same time. Go jogging, take a brisk walk, swim or ride a bike to slim down. Add faster spurts of movement to increase your calorie burn and blast fat.

About the Author

Mary Ylisela is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and mathematics. She has been a writer since 1996, specializing in business, fitness and education. Prior to teaching, Ylisela worked as a certified fitness instructor and a small-business owner.